Dratech is excited to honor Somtobe Olisah with the 2024 Dratech Innovation Award for his remarkable achievements in data science and financial technology. His pioneering work has propelled advancements in digital payments, demonstrating a strong commitment to innovation and security in fintech. Following his recognition with the BAT Award of Excellence eighteen months ago, Somtobe continues to redefine digital payments and financial technology, driving transformative solutions at the intersection of data and business innovation.
As Co-Founder and Chief Operations Officer of PayOnUs, Somtobe has led groundbreaking advancements in digital payment security. Through the innovative PayOnUs platform, he spearheaded the design and deployment of a real-time fraud detection system powered by advanced machine learning models, significantly reducing fraud incidents in digital transactions. Under his leadership, OnUs has processed transactions exceeding ₦40 billion, earning partnerships with key players like ITEX, Kora Pay, Billpoint Technology and TechSteps. His commitment to leveraging technology for financial accessibility has cemented PayOnUs as a driving force in Nigeria’s evolving fintech landscape.
Beyond OnUs Financial Services, Somtobe’s impact extends globally. Currently serving as a Data Engineer at GEICO, he develops data ingestion pipelines using tools like Apache Kafka and Snowflake to enhance operational efficiency. His work in this space reflects his ability to merge data science with business operations, creating seamless and scalable solutions that drive efficiency and innovation. His expertise and leadership in data engineering underscore his technical prowess and dedication to improving digital infrastructures across industries.
Somtobe’s research contributions further highlight his commitment to utilizing data for meaningful impact. His published works, including “Unveiling Global Human Trafficking Trends: A Comprehensive Analysis” (2023) and “Predicting Accident Severity: An Analysis of Factors Affecting Accident Severity Using Random Forest Model” (2023), emphasize the role of data in addressing critical global issues. These publications demonstrate his ability to blend academic rigor with real-world applications, making significant strides in predictive analytics, cybersecurity, and data-driven social impact.
Looking ahead, Somtobe envisions a fintech ecosystem in Africa driven by AI and data innovation. His plans for OnUs Financial Services include expanding cross-border transactions, harnessing blockchain for cost-effective and transparent financial solutions, and bridging gaps in financial access through data-driven strategies. His vision aligns with the broader goal of using technology to foster economic growth and financial inclusivity across underserved markets.
In honoring Somtobe Olisah, the 2024 Dratech Innovation Award recognizes not only his technical excellence but also his unwavering dedication to advancing the field of data science and fintech. His contributions continue to inspire and set a benchmark for innovation in Africa and beyond. Congratulations to Somtobe Olisah on this well-deserved recognition.
